fall prevention programs

what causes falls in the elderly?

Falls are a very common cause of minor and major injuries in the elderly. It is estimated that one in three seniors experience at least one fall a year. The most common causes of falls include:

• Balance-related problems and muscle weakness.
• Poor vision.
• Bone-related issues like osteoporosis.
• Dizziness due to heart diseases, dementia, low blood pressure, etc. 
• Alcohol influence.

• Wet floors.
• Inadequate lighting.
• Using ladders, etc.
• Inadequately secured rugs and carpets.

how can falls be prevented in the elderly?

Falls in the seniors can result in fractures of the hip, wrist, pelvis, hematoma, dislocation of the joints, sprains, etc. In serious cases, a fall may lead to severe laceration, disabling soft tissue injuries, head trauma, injuries to internal organs, and even death. 

Studies say that falling once can double the chances of the person falling again. Keeping in mind the serious complications, having a fall prevention program is critical.

A comprehensive fall prevention program for elderly should include:

• Making a doctor’s appointment: Instead of leaving yourself to chance or self-designing a fall prevention program, it is strongly recommended that you see your doctor. This includes detailed discussion and education on your health conditions and what to do in case a fall happens. 
• Making your surroundings safe: This includes having adequate lighting in your house, removing hazards from the floors like boxes, loose rugs, wires, etc., wearing sensible shoes, and using assistive devices like handrails, raised toilet seat, grab bars, etc. 

how can physiotherapy help in preventing falls?

The role of physiotherapy in the prevention of falls in older people is critical. It impacts the physiological functions of the body like imbalance, slow reaction time, low muscle strength, reduced range of motion, etc., the mismatch of which is the major reason behind falls. 

This includes strengthening exercises like walking on a treadmill, Tai Chi, weight training, stretching, dancing, etc. 

Its long-term benefits include:

• Balance retraining for improving the posture and muscle reaction time. 
• Physiotherapy makes the muscles more flexible 
• Practising therapy induces confidence and reduces the fear of falls.
• Since it leads to a decrease in the incidence of falls, the cost and time involved in hospital readmissions are also reduced.
• They lead to better social interactions and a more positive outlook. 
• The cost of fall prevention programs is much less than getting treated for fall-related injuries.

how can portea help?

Portea has made world-class healthcare accessible and affordable by developing in-home solutions for a wide range of health issues, especially those of the elderly. Our physiotherapy services have the following benefits:

• Since our experienced therapists design customised therapy plans for you after assessing your condition, you can leave your health worries to us. 
• Since you don’t have to travel for your sessions, you avoid the stress and cost of travel along with the risk of injuries due to travel.
• In addition to offering strategies for fall prevention exercise program for the elderly, our therapists also give you advice on how to make your home safe, lifestyle changes, stress management, good nutrition, etc. 
• Your progress is constantly monitored.
• Our therapy plans are almost 25-30 percent cheaper than those available at hospitals and clinics.